The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 1, and with severe weather threats still possible, the United Way of Southwest Alabama, in partnership with Verizon, continues its mission to help residents prepare and respond through a series of community-based workshops.

The fourth Disaster Resilience Workshop is on October 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Semmes Community Center. This free, public event will provide practical guidance for individuals and families on preparing for and recovering from severe weather and disasters.

A featured panel discussion will include keynote speakers from earlier workshops:

• Patsy Hughes, Alabama Department of Insurance
• Erin Coker, BSN, RN, Springhill Medical Center
• Mary Spivey, Home Builders Licensure Board
• Mike Dillaber, Mobile County Emergency Management Agency

Attendees will also have access to information and resources from a wide range of exhibitors, including:

United Way 211, AARP, Alabama Power, American Red Cross, Better Business Bureau of Central & South Alabama, Governor’s Office of Volunteer Services, Mobile County EMA, South Alabama Volunteer Lawyers Program, and Spire.

United Way will provide lunch during the event. Registered participants will have a chance to win a generator. To be eligible; they must be present at the time of the drawing. Each registration allows for one entry. Attendees will also receive disaster kits while supplies last.

Registration is required. To reserve your spot, visit https://UWDisasterWorkshop.eventbrite.com.

This workshop is part of UWSWA’s Disaster Response, Recovery, and Resilience Initiative, made possible by a grant from Verizon, supporting high-risk communities throughout Mobile County, including Semmes, Bayou La Batre, Citronelle, and surrounding areas.

By investing in readiness, Verizon and UWSWA aim to strengthen community resilience, reduce recovery times, and ultimately save lives.

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